The Benefits of Online Addiction Treatment

April 24, 2020

While the spread of COVID-19 has required
stay at home orders for millions of Americans and as a result, many people
seeking help for substance abuse are turning to online, virtual treatment as an
alternative to in-person care.

What Are the Benefits of Online Addiction Treatment?

Virtual programs make addiction treatment more accessible by removing barriers for people that do not live close to a treatment center, for people with disabilities, as well as people with challenges ranging from lack of childcare or transportation to those living in remote communities and more. At Valley Hope, this virtual care solution is designed as an effective treatment option for anyone requiring an outpatient level of care.

In addition, online programs make substance abuse treatment convenient for patients and families. Virtual care platforms, such as Valley Hope’s TeleCare program, are designed for patient convenience, simply requiring an internet connection, laptop or desktop computer, smartphone or tablet and camera. By using your existing technology, you can receive addiction treatment in your home at the click of a button.

How Does Online Addiction Treatment Work?

Small Group Therapy: Groups are facilitated by licensed clinicians and serve as an opportunity for healing conversations about the disease of addiction, sharing coping skills and sober strategies and building peer relationships and a community of recovery support.

Relapse Prevention Planning and Continuing Care Coordination: Valley Hope’s individualized, comprehensive care approach includes tailored continuing care planning and coordination with you and your treatment team to help reduce the risk of relapse. That often includes participating in weekly one-hour Continuing Care groups that focus on relapse prevention and peer recovery support, as well as guidance on 12-step involvement and developing strategies for managing a sober life.

Is Virtual Addiction Treatment Effective?

Even before the coronavirus, virtual
treatment was regarded as a viable, effective option for treating drug and
alcohol addiction. In fact, a study by Yale University in 2018 revealed that
“[patients]
are more likely to complete treatment and use less drugs and alcohol, both
within treatment and through a six-month follow-up if they use an online
program teaching skills and strategies to control behavior rather than
undergoing standard therapy.”

Another study published by The American Journal of Psychiatry revealed that online treatment programs reduced active addiction among the patient group. And, according to a study by the Addiction Science & Clinical Practice Journal, virtual treatment programs have approval rates above 75 percent.

Even in isolation, help and hope are available. Known as a pioneer of using telehealth technology to expand access to life-changing substance abuse services, Valley Hope first launched an online addiction treatment platform in 2007. Since then, the TeleCare virtual addiction treatment program has helped expand access to treatment by filling the gap in treatment care for people, families and communities impacted by drug and alcohol addiction.

Addiction Help during the Coronavirus and Beyond

If you or someone you know may have a problem
with alcohol or other drugs, the addiction experts at Valley Hope can provide a
free level of care screening to determine if you require clinical treatment.
Because addiction remains a public health crisis in America, Valley Hope
provides an essential public health service and continues to welcome new
patients at each of our 16 treatment centers with medical detox services,
residential treatment, online outpatient treatment and virtual recovery support
programs.

We know that the dangers of addiction dramatically increase in the face of heightened anxiety, stress and isolation. That’s why our team of treatment experts stand ready to provide help and healing for alcohol misuse or abuse in a safe, compassionate environment.

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